Collapsible hard case for surfboards and other large objects

ABSTRACT

A protective case for large objects including a lock housing formed from a first section and a second section, both of the sections including at least one external subsection and at least one internal subsection configured to telescope inside the external subsection; and an extension lock comprising a lock housing and a compression lock, the lock housing including a screw-threaded channel, and the compression comprising at least one screw-threaded shaft with a compressive component on the interior end and a lock handle on the exterior end, the screw-threaded shaft configured to matingly engage with the screw-threaded channel of the lock housing; the compression lock configured to descend in the lock housing and compressingly lock the internal subsection in an extended position upon locking rotation of the compression lock; and the compression lock configure to ascend in the lock housing upon unlocking rotation of the cam latch.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to and claims priority from the following USpatents and patent applications. This application is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 14/684,734, filed Apr. 13,2015, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.14/195,501, filed Mar. 3, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,010,559, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 13/748,356, filed Jan. 23,2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,104, which is a continuation ofapplication Ser. No. 13/224,904, filed Sep. 2, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No.8,381,930, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.12/462,216, filed Jul. 31, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,138, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/137,560, filedJul. 31, 2008, each of which is in incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to travel cases or containers,and more particularly to a collapsible hard case for protectivelytransporting a large object.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Protective travel cases are generally known. By way of example, U.S.Publication 2004/0232016 provides a telescoping hard case for carrying agolf bag and U.S. Pat. No. 3,628,655 discloses a sectional, convertiblewig case.

In particular, regarding surfboards, typically surfers travel to remotedestinations for participating in the sport, especially forcompetitions, vacations, etc. Additionally, boards are shipped frommanufacturers to distributors, retailers and customers using an archaic,damage prone method of cardboard, bubble wrap and duct tape packaging.There are currently no convenient methods for shipping such boards.Problematically, shipment of surfboards or transport in air cargodamages the board surface and introduces structural stresses that theboards were not designed to be exposed to. In many cases, incidentaldamage to boards during travel and/or transportation can functionallyruin a surfboard. In a specific circumstance, applicant's surfboard wasdestroyed by a baggage handler in airline transport to Hawaii from thecontinental US. Since boards are expensive and surfers typically preferto use their own board rather than generic boards, especially for moreadvanced surfers and professionals in competition, there has been a needto provide a protective shipping case or container for surfboards.

Typically, however, containers for shipment of large objects, such asthe size of a surfboard, are large and bulky. Upon safe transport of thesurfboard then, the container must be stored in a correspondingly largespace. Surfboards often range in length from 6-10 feet, in width betweenabout 2-3 feet, and in depth about 3 inches.

One commercially available surfboard case offered at the time of thepresent invention is by Santa Monica Hard Case in California, USA. Whilethis product provides a protective case for surfboards, it is formed ofa flexible plastic that leaves the boards vulnerable to damage duringtransport or shipment. Also, it has limited size options and features.Furthermore, this case does not collapse into itself.

Thus there remains a need for a protective case for surfboards that alsoprovides for convenient storage when not in use and for ease oftransport when carried.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention is to provide a collapsibleprotective case for large objects. The protective case includes at leastone extension lock configured for locking the case in a fully expandedposition for completely protectively and removably containing the largeobject, and to be alternatively collapsed to a collapsed position whennot in use

A second aspect of the present invention is to provide an extension lockwith a lock housing and a compression latch. The compression latch has acompressive component configured to descend out of the lock housing andcompressingly lock the case in an extended position and to ascend intothe housing when unlocked, allowing the case to telescope into acompacted configuration.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art after a reading of the following description ofthe preferred embodiment when considered with the drawings, as theysupport the claimed invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a protective case in an extendedposition according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates an end view of the case shown in FIG. 1 in acollapsed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a protective case in an extendedposition according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a subsection having a case handle according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a subsection having a boss according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of a protective case in an intermediateposition and having an insert according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a protective case according toone embodiment of the invention with two lock housings for two extensionlocks visible.

FIG. 10 illustrates a lock housing and a lock handle according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11A illustrates a top view of a lock housing and a lock handleaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional side of the lock housing and thelock handle of FIG. 11A along plane A-A.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a lock housing and a lockhandle according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective line drawing of a lock housing and alock handle according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom view of a cam latch according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15A illustrates a side view of an extension lock according to oneembodiment of the invention in the unlocked position.

FIG. 15B illustrates a side view of an extension lock according to oneembodiment of the invention in the locked position.

FIG. 16A illustrates a joint according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 16B is a magnification of area B of FIG. 16A showing a jointaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates the internal ribbing according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 18 is a color illustration of the stress distribution as a resultof an applied load at the case segment lock according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 19 is a color illustration of the stress distribution as a resultof an applied load at the case segment lock according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of an embodiment with the wheels positionedto stabilize the case when extended.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of an embodiment with the wheels positionedto mobilize the case when compacted.

FIG. 22 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of one halfof a modular case.

FIG. 23 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of amodular section including a detail view of the modular section.

FIG. 24 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of amodular section.

FIG. 25 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of anassembled modular case.

FIG. 26 illustrates a top perspective view of another embodiment of amodular section.

FIG. 27 illustrates a detail view and profile of a male edge of asection embodiment.

FIG. 28 illustrates a detail view and profile of a male edge of asection embodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates a detail view and profile of one embodiment ofinterlocking male-female edges of two sections.

FIG. 30 illustrates a top perspective view of a modular section withexploded latches.

FIG. 31 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a modular section withan exploded view of latches and wheels.

FIG. 32 illustrates a detail exploded view of a latch of one modularsection embodiment.

FIG. 33 illustrates a detail view of an assembled vertical latch of twoconnected modular sections.

FIG. 34 illustrates a top perspective view of stacked modular endsections according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the external surface ofa modular section with a wheel assembly.

FIG. 36 illustrates a top perspective view of a wheel assemblyembodiment.

FIG. 37 illustrates a top perspective exploded view of one embodiment ofan assembled case including two end sections and two end cap sections.

FIG. 38 illustrates a top orthogonal exploded view of one embodiment ofan assembled case including two end sections and two end cap sections.

FIG. 39 illustrates a top orthogonal view of one embodiment of an endsection.

FIG. 40 illustrates a right side orthogonal view of one embodiment of anend section.

FIG. 41 illustrates a rear orthogonal view of one embodiment of an endsection.

FIG. 42 illustrates a right side orthogonal view of one embodiment of anassembled hollow case with four end sections.

FIG. 43 illustrates a top orthogonal view of one embodiment of anassembled hollow case with four end sections.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for thepurpose of describing preferred embodiments of the invention and are notintended to limit the invention thereto.

The present invention provides a protective case for large objectsconstructed and configured to be used in expanded, intermediate andcollapsed positions for completely protectively containing the objectwhen housed, and to be alternatively configured in a collapsed positionfor storage of the case when not in use, i.e., when the object is notstored therewithin. More particularly, the present invention includes acollapsible protective case for large objects with a housing having arigid, impact-resistant outer surface, the housing being formed from amultiplicity of adjoining sections that are selectively configurablebetween expanded, intermediate and collapsed positions.

Preferably, the rigid, impact-resistance outer surface is formed from ahard plastic or composite material that is sufficiently thick to preventpuncture or tearing and resist pressure, flexing or deformation, suchthat the object contained completely within the housing is protectedfrom external forces. Varying dimensions of the outer surface depend onthe object or objects being stored, the transportation conditions, andthe amount of protection desired. In one embodiment, the hard plasticshell is between 1/32 and ¼ inches thick, preferably about 3/32 inchesthick.

In one embodiment, illustrated by FIGS. 1-3, the housing is preferablyformed from two mating sections A and B for completely encasing theobject or objects from either end. Sections A and B are releasablyconnectable and lockable at the adjoining edges that form the middle ofthe housing. In one embodiment, the two separated sections A and B areapproximately equal in size and dimensions. As shown in FIG. 1, with theexception of the wheels 10 and end case handle 7, the housing ispreferably symmetrical about the long axis Y and about the short axis X,in order to improve the balance of the housing in each position.

FIGS. 1 and 3 illustrate each of the two sections A and B being furthercomprised of subsections or cells (1A-5A, 1B-5B, 31A-33A and 31B-33B)that are constructed and configured to be juxtapositioned in theextended position. As illustrated in the FIGS. 1 and 3, innermostsubsections 1A/B and 31A/B have larger dimensions that outermost endsubsections 5A/B and 33A/B. When not being used for protectivelyencasing an object, these subsections collapse into each othersubstantially concentrically as illustrated in FIG. 2. In the collapsedposition of FIG. 2, the housing of the present invention canconveniently be stored in a compact position, as illustrated by FIG. 3.In a preferred embodiment, each of the subsections is arranged so thatthe end-most subsections 5A/B and 33A/B collapse into the larger middlesubsections 1A/B and 31A/B. Correspondingly, the intermediatesubsections 2-4A/B and 32A/B collapse between end-most subsections 5A/Band 33A/B and middle subsections 1A/B and 31A/B as shown in FIGS. 2 and3.

Referring to FIG. 1, sections A and B align longitudinally along theboard length along track 12, which provides a notch and lock systemproviding a releasable securement of the subsections with respect toeach other to form the rigid housing. Section A is releasably fastenableto the section B by a plurality of latches 6. In one embodiment, fourlatches are provided, as depicted in FIG. 1. Alternatively, two latches6, one mirrored on each of two sides of the housing suffice.Alternatively, any number of latches 6 are positioned on subsection 1Aor 31A with corresponding latch receptors 13 on subsection 1B or 31B. Inany embodiment the latches 6 can be positioned on the exterior orinterior of the housing or both, and optionally include a key or codelocking mechanism.

In one embodiment, a carrying case handle 11 is attached to a side ofthe case for easier carrying, but is strategically placed to function asa releasable attaching latch for connecting the sections A and B.Optionally and additionally, wheels 10 are positioned on one section anda roller case handle 10 on the other section for easier transport of thecase and object assembly. Also, optionally, a roof rack system 9attached to one of the intermediate subsections 2A-4A and mirrored onone of the juxtaposed subsections 2B-4B is provided.

In one embodiment a lining 403 configured and positioned within theinterior of the housing may be provided for additional protection andimpact resistance for the large object(s). The lining may include animpact-absorbing or cushioning lining, such as foam, rubber or acoating, and may be affixed to the inner surface of at least one or allof the housing subsections or may be removably affixed to the one ormore subsections. Optionally and alternatively, a protective flexibleinner sleeve 404 may be used within the protective case; by way ofexample and not limitation, it may be independent of the housing andapplied around the surfboard before the sleeve-wrapped board is insertedinto the case. Preferably, the lining 403 and/or sleeve 404 dimensionsare configured to provide flexibility in accommodating large object(s)of varying sizes and dimensions. Additionally, in an embodiment whereinboth a lining 403 and sleeve 404 are provided, the sleeve may be atleast substantially waterproof, thereby providing protection to thelining, which may be susceptible to mold or rot, or, alternatively thelining may be at least substantially resistance to wear and tear,thereby minimizing damage to the lining. Alternatively, the liningand/or sleeve itself may provide similar functionality, therebyminimizing similar damage to the housing.

In one embodiment, wherein a rubber sleeve 404 and foam lining or insertblocks J and K are provided, and wherein the large object is asurfboard, the surfboard would first be inserted into the sleeve andthen the nose of the surfboard is slidingly placed into the block J atthe end of subsection 5A while section A of the case is in a collapsedor intermediate position. Then the surfboard is pushed into the case,and the subsections 2A-5A are extended towards an expanded orintermediate position. Then the tail end of the surfboard is slidinglyplaced into the block K at the end of subsection 5B while section B ofthe case is in a collapsed or intermediate position. The subsections2B-5B are then extended towards an expanded or intermediate position,thereby covering the remaining portion of the board not covered bysection A. Sections A and B are attached by placing the latches 6 into aclosed position (or releasably locked position). Optionally, thecarrying case handle is additionally closed or releasably locked usinglatch 11.

FIG. 3 illustrates side and end views of another embodiment according tothe present invention; more specifically, it shows the collapsible casein both extended and collapsed positions from a side view (extendedposition) and end view (collapsed position). In this embodiment, twoequal sections A and B are shown, these sections being further dividedinto subsections 1-3AB. Subsection 3AB collapses into subsection 2A/Band both subsections 2A/B and 3AB collapse into subsection 1A/B. Thesesubsections collapse along a track 12 to ensure the subsections collapseand extend with ease, while the track 12 also provides rigidity. In analternative embodiment, the segments fit snugly inside each other toprovide rigidity and therefore do not require a track.

Latches 6 secure sections A and B to each other. A wheel mechanism 10 isused to roll the case and case handle 7 is used for pulling or carryingthe case. In embodiments of the present invention, some of the sectionsor subsections are removable or insertable, allowing the case to belengthened and shortened, thereby providing maximum size flexibility.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention, whereinat least one strap 401 is attached to bosses 402 located on the exteriorof the housing sections A and B. Each strap is attached to the case witha securement mechanism, the securement mechanism preferably being astrap attachment boss 402, as depicted in FIG. 4. The strap attachmentboss may be a separate piece connected to the case or integral to theouter housing manufacture. For example, and not by limitation, the boss402 may be an integral feature of an injection molded section401-402A/B, as depicted in FIG. 6. Further, the strap and boss design iscapable of being mirrored or duplicated on one or more other sides orsections. One embodiment of mirrored bosses is depicted in FIG. 4.Furthermore, the strap is comprised of any suitable material or fabric,such that the weight of the case and enclosed object(s) are capable ofbeing lifted from a resting position without risk of tear or breakage.In a preferred embodiment, four bosses 402 and two straps 401 areincluded in the case design, as depicted in FIG. 4.

In one embodiment, a strap is positioned and secured between two bosses,the two bosses equally positioned from the apex 406 of the case. In suchan embodiment, the strap is adjustable in length through the boss, suchthat the slack of the strap may be configured to the particular user andsituation. In one embodiment, a hook-and-loop-type fastener is providedas a means of releasably attaching one end of a strap to a portion ofthe strap body for securing the strap in a fixed position. In anotherembodiment, a first boss may house a retractable cord mechanism and theother boss, being mirrored in a position across the apex on the samehousing side, may house a releasable attachment mechanism. By way ofexample and not a limitation, the retractable cord mechanism may besimilar to the mechanisms described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,096,740 byinventors Parker, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,053,381 by inventors Fahl, etal. or U.S. Publication 2011/126778 by inventor Lucy Mitchell, each ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, such that theexcess strap remains housed within the boss and is lockable in amultiplicity of lengths. Also, by way of example and not a limitation,the releasable attachment mechanism may be a selectably releasableclasp.

In one embodiment, the strap can be adjusted to give greater slack, sothat the user-transporter can place the strap over the shoulder.Alternatively, the strap can be tightened to remove any excess slack,allowing the user-transporter to carry the case by placing the strapwithin the grip of a hand instead of over the shoulder. As one skilledin the art would appreciate, the strap is adjustable to any length inany of the expanded, intermediate or collapsed positions, such that thecase may be carried over the shoulder, with the hand, or attachable toanother system, such as to a rack or over a hook. Also, according toembodiments of the present invention, wherein the case is in anintermediate or collapsed position, the strap can be configured to actas a restraining strap around the case, thereby preventing the case fromaccidentally expanding.

In another embodiment, wherein the case is attachable to an automobileluggage rack, the method of attaching the case to the rack includessteps of: disengaging one side of the strap from one boss, placing thecase on the rack with the disengaged strap side of the housing facingdown, looping the strap from the remaining attached boss around therack, reengaging the strap to the disengaged boss, and firmly tighteningthe strap.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention, whereina case handle 501 is affixed to at least one section of the case to aidin transportation. Preferably the case handle is centered on the case,section and/or subsection. Optionally, the case handle is riveted to thecase, as depicted in FIG. 5. The case handle 501 is comprised of ametal, a metal encased in rubber, or any other suitable material.

Notably, the strap attachment boss 402 serves at least two purposes: (1)a securement mechanism for the strap, and (2) an anti-rocking mechanismfor the case when in a resting position. As depicted in FIG. 4, thecollapsible and adjoining sections create a substantially diamond-shapedsilhouette when the case is viewed from the side. Because the center ofthe case has the greatest height at the apex, when the case is in aresting position it may have a tendency to tilt to one end or the other.A pair of strap attachment bosses 402, individually depicted in FIG. 6,when positioned on the bottom of the case, prevents the case fromtilting or rocking in either direction. This advantageous featureprovides stability and reduces the risk of injury or damage.

In the case of use for a surfboard, each section is about half thelength of a surfboard but slightly larger to properly and protectivelysecure the surfboard therein when combined together. In the case of usefor an asymmetrical object or objects, such as golf clubs, musicalinstrument, etc., the sections and subsections may remain symmetricaland either (1) inserts are provided and/or (2) the housing is configuredin one of the intermediate positions to compensate for the asymmetry ofthe object(s) and provide protection to the object(s). In the embodimentwherein inserts are provided, at least one insert is placed in asubsection of section A or B or both. By conforming the interior of thehousing to provide an improved fit to the large object or objects,whether through the use of inserts or intermediate positions or both,the large object(s) are less likely to move within the housing duringtransport, thereby minimizing damage or disorganization of theobject(s).

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment having an insert and configuring asubsection into an intermediate position to provide a better fit for theobject(s), in this case golf clubs. Subsection 41A is configured intointermediate position 701 so as to remove any excess volume from theinterior of the housing when the golf clubs are housed therewithin.Additionally, golf club insert 702 is placed within subsection 41B toprovide a tighter fit within this subsection, thereby minimizing themovement of the clubs during transport. As one skilled in the art wouldappreciate, any number of designs and configurations could be includedas an insert in order to contain portions of a housed large object(s).

In another embodiment, the case includes a housing having a rigid,impact-resistant outer surface, the housing being formed from two equalhalves, each half having a multiplicity of adjoining sections that areselectively configurable between an expanded transport position and acollapsed storage position; the housing being symmetrical about the longaxis and about the short axis. Furthermore, in another embodiment, thehousing halves have equal number of adjoining sections and the housinghalves are symmetrical when in an expanded or collapsed position.

The present invention includes an extension lock to hold the subsectionsin an extended position. FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a protectivecase with two extension locks 800. FIGS. 10, 11A and 11B and 12 show apreferred embodiment of a lock housing 810 and lock handle 815 for anextension lock 800. FIG. 13 shows a cut-away view of the extension lock800. The extension lock is located on the distal end of a firstsubsection (away from the X axis, see FIG. 8) and is configured forlocking the first subsection to a second subsection internal to thefirst subsection in an extended position. The extension lock, generallydescribed as 800, includes a lock housing 810 and a compression latch820. The lock housing includes a screw-threaded channel 812. Thecompression latch 820 includes a screw-threaded shaft 822 with acompressive component 824 on the internal end and a lock handle 815 onthe external end. The screw-threaded shaft is configured to matinglyengage with the screw-threaded channel of the lock housing. In apreferred embodiment, the compressive component is a cam and thecompression latch is a cam latch.

FIG. 14 shows a bottom view of a cam latch 820 with the cam 824 and partof the lock handle 815 visible. The eccentric portion 825 of the cam isin the locked position against the internal subsection lip 830. FIG. 14also shows the locking and unlocking direction of rotation for aright-handed lock. In an alternative embodiment the eccentric surfaceprofile becomes flat in the last 10-15 degrees of handle rotation,allowing it to engage the internal subsection lip across a wider areaand increasing the force necessary to rotate the lock handle away fromengagement. In this configuration the cam includes an apex 823, which isthe termination of the flat section 827. The dimensions of the cam aresuch that the cam can rise into the channel upon unlocking rotation.

FIGS. 15A and 15B are cut-away side views of the extension lockinstalled. FIG. 15A shows the extension lock in an unlockedconfiguration. FIG. 15B shows the extension lock in a lockedconfiguration.

This embodiment shows a screw-threaded shaft 822 with lock handle 815 onthe exterior end and cam 824 on the interior end with eccentric section825 and depth 826. The cam and eccentric section rotates about the axisof the lock handle and screw-threaded shaft. As the shaft is rotateddown in the lock housing, the eccentric section progressively engagesthe proximal end of the internal subsection, progressively forcing theinternal subsection distally into the extended position until theinternal and external subsection lips engage. The lock handle ispreferably rotated about 180 degrees to fully engage the eccentricportion with the internal subsection lip.

The cam latch is configured to descend in the lock housing (towards theY-axis, see FIG. 8) and lock the internal subsection in an extendedposition upon rotation between about 180 degrees and about 270 degrees.Preferably the cam moves between locked and unlocked positions withabout 180 degree rotation. The depth of the cam 826 is designed,constructed and configured such that it will move between locked andunlocked positions with the appropriate amount of rotation. In apreferred embodiment, the depth of the cam is approximately equal toabout ½ the lead of the shaft screw-thread, such that the cam willcompletely move into and out of the lock housing upon about 180 degreerotation. In an alternate embodiment, the depth of the cam is about ¾the lead of the shaft screw-thread, such that it will move betweenlocked and unlocked positions upon about 270 degree rotation.

The locking occurs through the engagement of the internal subsection lip830 with external subsection lip 832 at the point of engagement 833. Theengagement prevents inward travel of the internal section. The cam latchis also configured to ascend in the lock housing upon 180 degreeunlocking rotation of the cam latch. In a preferred embodiment, the cam825 is configured to move completely into the lock housing withunlocking rotation between about 180 degrees and about 270 degrees, suchthat the internal subsections can telescope into the external subsectionand are not obstructed by the cam when the extension lock is in theunlocked position.

The cam and/or cam latch are preferably made of an impact and abrasionresistant material, preferably a metal or toughened plastic; and thesurfaces of the internal subsection that contact the cam are preferablylined with an impact and abrasion-resistant material, preferably a metalor a filled/toughened plastic.

FIGS. 16A and 16B also show the engagement of two subsections. FIG. 16Bis a detailed view of area “B” of FIG. 16A, showing the engaged internal830 and external 832 subsection lips.

The present invention preferably includes rib reinforcements. These aretransverse ribs 840 (parallel to the X-axis) and longitudinal ribs 841(parallel to the Y-axis), as shown in FIG. 17. The rib reinforcementspreferably increase the bending moment of the flat panel sections of thecase, thereby increasing their bending stiffness. These ribs also assistin distributing forces acting at the extension lock into the skin of thesubsection. FIGS. 18 and 19 are color-coded images showing the stressdistribution as a result of an applied load at the case segment lock.The force applied on an extended case subsection is transmitted into theinboard case subsection by bearing on the cam mechanism. This load is inturn transmitted into the lock housing of the cam mechanism. The taperedshape of the lock housing slowly distributes load into the skin and ribsof the case subsection. A measured distribution of load into therelatively thin skin of the case is desired so as not to overstress thematerial locally.

Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those skilled inthe art upon a reading of the foregoing description. For example, asshown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the wheels are optionally strategically placedso that they stabilize the case. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20,the bottom of the wheels are level with the side of the case its apex406 when fully extended so that there are 3 points of rest, thusstabilizing the case when lying extended on the side. The wheels canadditionally be spaced widely to advantageously act as stabilizers whenthe case is lying flat and extended.

In another example embodiment shown in FIG. 21, there are at least 2wheels that protrude wider than the case body to prevent it fromrocking. Preferably, there are 4 wheels. The wheels limit the compactionof the case, such that the end segment still telescopes in but does notgo all the way inside. The compacted case can be moved around on thewheels, facilitating moving the case when compacted. Also, the wheelsact as a hard stop to compressing the case and in a preferred embodimenta strap is used to tie the case closed for storage.

In a modular design embodiment, the body is operable to be separatedinto modular sections for compactness and portability. FIG. 22illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of the modulardesign, wherein one half of a case is composed of three sections: twoidentical end sections 2201 and one midsection 2203. In one embodiment,the two identical end sections 2201 are attached to each other without amidsection. Alternatively, one end section is connected to an end capsection. End caps provide for a shorter, more compact alternative to anend section. In one embodiment, end caps are approximately a quarter ofthe size of end sections. In a further embodiment, end caps areapproximately a third of the size of end sections. However, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize that midsections, end caps andend sections are operable to be any length, width, and depth. Thus, thecase of the present invention provides for customization of the case fora variety of applications, including being used in shipping products ofvarious dimensions and storing skis, snowboards, skateboards,surfboards, musical instruments, and sports equipment such as golfclubs, etc. While the embodiments illustrated are substantiallyrectangular and cuboid (or half-cuboids), in other embodiments thesections are any concave shape, including a cube, hemisphere, ellipsoid,spheroid, or sections thereof. Midsections are preferably approximatelyhalf the length of end sections and are equal in width and depth,wherein the depth is a measurement of the vertical concavity of thesection. Further embodiments include multiple midsections, each of whichis operable to connect to each other laterally for one half of a caseand interlock edges with vertically positioned corresponding midsectionsin a hollow case configuration. This configuration allows for virtuallyany number of extensions in length of case, wherein the length of caseis controlled by the number of midsections in the configuration and thelength of the midsections. In one embodiment, each midsection is about24 inches.

FIG. 23 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of an endsection wherein the section includes three latch positions (2301 a, 2301b, 2301 c) and three keeper positions (2303 a, 2303 b, 2303 c) on theinside surface of the end section and positioned in an alternatingsequence along the edge of the end section. The first latch position2301 a illustrates a latch position with a latch 2305 attached andengaged to an external keeper 2307, while the second latch position 2301b illustrates a latch position without a latch attached. The firstkeeper position 2303 a illustrates a keeper position with a keeper 2309attached and an external latch 2311 engaged to the keeper 2309. The endsection is configured such that a latch position from another segment isoperable to engage the keepers (2303 a, 2303 b, 2303 c) and have alignedkeepers for latches (2301 a, 2301 b, 2301 c) attached to the endsegment. In alternative embodiments, the end section includes any numberof latches that will securely connect two sections together. Latches areeither throw latches as illustrated or any other form of latch, buckle,or clasp known in the art, including the cam lock latch of the presentinvention. Latches and keepers are operable to be attached tointermediary platforms in the latch and keeper positions, wherein theintermediary platforms include washers, plates, or other materialsupplementary to the modular section itself. In the illustratedembodiment, latches are secured through intermediary platforms withscrews positioned lengthwise to the modular section and keepers aresecured through intermediary platforms with screws positioned widthwiseto the modular section.

Additionally, FIG. 24 illustrates a top perspective view of a modularsection wherein tabs 2401 are symmetrically positioned along the sameinside edge of the end section as the latches and provide structuralstability for attached modular structures. The tabs 2401 are alignedsuch that when an identical, second end section is attached to the endsection the tabs are complimentarily alternating and symmetrical inorder to prevent the end sections from buckling outwards or rotating. Ina preferred embodiment, the tabs are approximately 3 inches in lengthand are positioned at approximately 13 inch to 18 inch intervals fromeach other. Preferably, there are eight (8) tabs per complimentary endsection. Additionally, midsections and end caps are also constructed tohave complimentary tabs, wherein the tabs are constructed in a similarmanner to provide structure and stability to the case when attached.

Modular sections are connected to each other laterally through thelatching and tabbing mechanisms described above. The geometry andconstruction of the case further allows for stacking multiple sectionsvertically. When stacked with concave faces towards each other, thesections form a hollow case section. When stacked with one concave faceand one convex face towards each other, the aligned geometry allows forcompact storage of the modular sections.

FIG. 25 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of thehollow case. When one section is placed on top of another with theconcave faces towards each other, male and female edges of complimentaryand substantially identical sections interlock and are in mating contactalong the edges. FIG. 26 illustrates a top perspective view of the maleand female edges of an end section. In FIG. 26, the male edge 2601 runsalong a first half of the section's edge, meets at the middle of thenon-latched end 2605 with the female edge 2603, which continues around asecond half of the section's edge. With this geometry, a substantiallyidentical second section is thus operable to be positioned in aconfiguration with its male and female edges securely and matinglycontacting the female and male edges of the first section, respectively.The edges extend approximately 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches from thevertical surface of the section, creating an external rib.

FIG. 27 illustrates a detail and profile view of a male edge 2701. FIG.28 illustrates a detail and profile view of a female edge 2801. FIG. 29illustrates a detail and profile view of mating contact between the twoedges 2901 wherein sections are joined to form the hollow case.

In alternative embodiments, the interlocking occurs through sliding asection on top of another section, through dovetail-shaped tracks,through snap-fit edges, and/or through any other alignment andpositioning method known in the art of mechanical design.

Additionally, throw latches secure the mated edges in the hollow caseconfiguration. FIG. 30 illustrates a top perspective view of a modularsection with latch positions 3001 and keeper positions 3005 distributedalong the external edge of the convex face of a section. Keepers arepreferably formed from lateral ribs 3005 formed from male or femaleedges of the section. FIG. 31 illustrates a bottom perspective view of amodular section with an exploded view of the latch positions. Dualvertical ribs 3101 on either side of a latch position or a keeperposition provide structural stability and protection from accidentaldisengagement of the latches. Holes 3103 for a latch pin 3105 are placedat a distance from the edge of the section such that a latch 3107 isable to securely engage a keeper on a second modular section. In oneembodiment, the distance between the pin and the edge is approximately1.3 inches. FIG. 32 illustrates a detailed exploded view of a latchposition with a latch pin 3105 inserted in the holes 3103. In theillustrated embodiment, throw latches are attached to the section by thepin fed through a hole 3201 in the latch. In a further embodiment, thelatch snaps onto the pin. The figure further illustrates the holes forthe latch pin placed on the side of the section with female edges,though in further embodiments the hole, pin, and latch are placed on theopposite, male-edge side. Latches are either throw latches asillustrated or any other form of latch, buckle, or clasp known in theart, including the cam lock latch of the present invention. Alsoillustrated in FIG. 32 is a vertical tab 3203. Vertical tabs arepositioned between the vertical ribs of latch positions on sides of asection with female edges. A vertical tab is inserted into a verticaltab slot in a corresponding female latch position of another section.Tab slots are preferably on sides of sections with male edges. In afurther embodiment, vertical tabs and tab slots are positioned along theedges and are not limited to a position in line with the latch position.

FIG. 33 illustrates a detail view an assembly of a vertical latch in alatch position.

FIG. 34 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of thestacking capability of the case. In the illustrated embodiment, eachsection is identically constructed and sufficiently concave such thatthe sections matingly contact along the internal face of a first sectionand the external face and ribs of a second surface. Sections include atleast one impressed area from the external surface (FIG. 35, 3507) thatcreates raised area 3401 on the internal surface, which providesanti-slip benefits when stacked as well as increased durability to thesection overall. In further embodiments, end cap sections and othermodular sections are constructed with complimentary geometry such thatthe modular sections are operable to be stacked with other modularsections. In yet another embodiment, the modular sections areconstructed with rotational symmetry such that the sections arestackable in an alternating, rotating fashion. For example, the sectionsare stackable with latched ends of the modular sections facing inopposite directions.

Modular sections are further stackable inside a hollow case such thatupon stacking the sections into a hollow case, extra end cap sections,midsections, and end sections are enclosed within the hollow case.

FIG. 35 illustrates a bottom perspective and exploded view of a modularsection with a wheel assembly 3501, wherein the wheel assembly 3101 isconstructed to complimentarily sit in a recess 3503 within the corner ofthe modular section that is substantially parallel to a lateral planeformed by the edges 3505 of the modular section. In one embodiment, theinside plane of the recess is positioned about approximately 45 degreesfrom the vertical plane of the length of the section towards thevertical plane of the width of the section. A detail top perspectiveview of the wheel assembly is illustrated in FIG. 36. Three screws (3607a, 3607 b, 3607 c) secure the wheel assembly 3501 through holes (FIG.35, 3509) in the recess (FIG. 35, 3503). Screws (3607 a, 3607 b, 3607 c)are fed from the concave side of the section to the convex side, and thewheel assembly 3501 is then attached. As illustrated, a screw 3607 b isfurther operable to function doubly as a wheel axel and a retainingscrew. Alternatively, at least one screw secures the wheel assemblythrough holes in the recess. The illustrated, preferred embodimentallows for quick attachment and removal of the wheel assembly to themodular section. In alternative embodiments, the wheel assembly isattached to the modular section through a retaining push pin, latch, orother hardware mechanism or is constructed as part of the modularsection such that the wheel housing 3603 or wheel assembly 3501 is afeature of the modular section itself and not a separate component.Preferably, a modular section includes at least two recesses for wheelassemblies. In a case configured from four modular end sections, theresult is eight (8) total wheels for the assembled case. The wheelassemblies are illustrated to be oriented along the lateral plane of thesections, however one skilled in the art will recognize that the wheelsare operable to be positioned at any angle relative to the lateral planeof the sections, including being positioned along the vertical plane ofthe sections. In alternative embodiments, the wheel housing includesswivel wheels such that the wheels are operable to rotate with thedirection of case movement. In one embodiment, the wheel assembly islocked into the section using solid fasteners such as C-clips. Threefasteners lock each wheel assembly into the inside of the section in oneexample. The wheels of the wheel assembly are about 80 mm (3.15 inches)in diameter in one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally,the wheels include tread or other mechanisms of providing traction.

FIG. 37 illustrates a top perspective view of a case with two endsections 3701 and two end cap sections 3703, which are configured tocreate a miniaturized case. FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of the samecase with two end sections 3701 and two end cap sections 3703.

FIG. 39 illustrates a top view of an end section. FIG. 40 illustrates aright side view of the same end section. FIG. 41 illustrates a rear viewof the same end section.

FIG. 42 illustrates a right side view of a hollow case configurationwith four end sections. FIG. 43 illustrates a top view of the samehollow case configuration with four end sections.

Advantageously, the case is operable to be configured from any number ofmidsections and combined with multiple sizes of end caps or endsections. For example, a smallest size combines two pairs of end capsections (a pair including corresponding top and bottom sections) toform a pod-like case. A larger example includes a configuration of onepair of end sections, two pairs of midsections, and one pair of end capsto form a case length four sections long. Notably, any number ofsections are operable to be combined to form a case as short or as longas desired. This modular case design provides significant advantagesover prior art, as prior art case designs do not allow for thecustomizability and adaptability of the present invention. For example,in one embodiment, transporting ski poles requires an end section pair,a midsection pair, and an end cap pair to meet the length of the poles.If skis are added to the package with the poles, the case is extended toa configuration of an end section pair, two midsection pairs, and an endsection pair. Thus, the length of the case is adaptable to any length ofitems being transported.

In another embodiment, a hollow, modular case transporting a surf boardincludes one pair of end sections, two pairs of midsections, and onepair of end caps for a total of eight sections. Following transportingthe surfboard to a beach, the case is operable to breakdown, and alleight sections are compactly stackable for storage. When transportingthe surfboard back, the eight sections are reconfigured to form a hollowcase and repackage the surfboard.

The described lengths of each of the sections are specific embodimentsof the end section, midsection, and end caps and are provided forfunctionality illustration purposes only. One skilled in the art willrecognize that the dimensions are modifiable to any necessary length,width, or depth. For example, in one embodiment, an end cap section isoperable to be substantially shorter than illustrated and extend onlyapproximately two inches beyond the lateral tabs. In another embodiment,an end section is operable to be approximately four feet in length and aconcavity of approximately six inches.

The above mentioned examples are provided to serve the purpose ofclarifying the aspects of the invention and it will be apparent to oneskilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of theinvention. All modifications and improvements have been deleted hereinfor the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly within thescope of the present invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A modular protective case comprising: ahousing including a rigid, impact-resistant material, wherein thehousing is composed of at least four sections; wherein at least twosections of the at least four sections form a first half of the housing;wherein each of the at least two sections is laterally attached toanother section with at least two latches per interface; a second halfof the housing, wherein the second half of the housing is composed of atleast two additional sections of the at least four sections; wherein theat least two additional sections are equal in number to the at least twosections; wherein the at least two additional sections are laterallyattached to each other with at least two additional latches perinterface; wherein the first half of the housing is attached to thesecond half of the housing with at least four vertical latches; whereinat least one of the four sections is constructed such that a convexsurface of the at least one of the four sections is operable to beplaced substantially in contact with a concave surface of another one ofthe at least four sections when disassembled; wherein vertical ribs arepositioned on a left side and right side of each of the verticallatches; wherein each of the at least four sections include male andfemale edges; wherein each of the at least four sections includes atleast one impressed area on the convex surface and at least one raisedarea on the concave surface.
 2. The case of claim 1, wherein the atleast four sections are substantially identical in construction.
 3. Thecase of claim 1, wherein the at least four sections are substantiallyrectangular.
 4. The case of claim 1, wherein each of the at least foursections include at least two keepers positioned in alternating sequencewith the at least two latches along an interface edge.
 5. The case ofclaim 1, wherein the male and female edges of one section areinterlocked with corresponding male and female edges of another section.6. The case of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least foursections includes a removable wheel assembly.
 7. The case of claim 1,wherein each of the at least four sections include at least one tab thatinterlocks with at least one tab of an attached lateral section, therebyproviding support and structure to the case when assembled.
 8. The caseof claim 1, wherein each of the at least four sections include eighttabs, wherein each tab interlocks with at least one tab of an attachedlateral section, and wherein the eight tabs are each approximately 3inches in length and spaced symmetrically between 13 inches and 18inches apart.
 9. The case of claim 1, wherein each of the at least foursections is formed from plastic.
 10. The case of claim 1, furthercomprising a rubber sleeve and foam lining.
 11. A modular protectivecase comprising: a housing including a rigid, impact-resistant material,wherein the housing is composed of six sections; wherein two endsections and one midsection of the six sections form a first half of thehousing; wherein the two end sections are each laterally attached to theone midsection with at least two internal latches per interface; asecond half of the housing, wherein the second half of the housing iscomposed of two additional end sections and one additional midsection ofthe six sections; wherein the two additional end sections aresubstantially identical to the two end sections and the one additionalmidsection is substantially identical to the one midsection; wherein thetwo additional end sections are laterally attached to the one additionalmidsection with at least two additional internal latches per interface;wherein the first half of the housing is attached to the second half ofthe housing with at least six vertical latches; wherein the six sectionsare stackable upon being disassembled.
 12. The case of claim 11, whereinthe six sections are substantially rectangular and concave.
 14. The caseof claim 11, wherein each of six sections include at least two keeperspositioned in alternating sequence with the at least two internallatches or the at least two additional internal latches along aninterface edge.
 15. The case of claim 11, wherein each of the sixsections include male and female edges, wherein the male and femaleedges of one section are interlocked with corresponding male and femaleedges of another section.
 16. The case of claim 11, wherein each of thetwo end sections and the two additional end sections includes aremovable wheel assembly.
 17. The case of claim 11, wherein each of thesix sections include tabs that interlock with tabs of an attachedlateral section, thereby providing support and structure to the casewhen assembled.
 18. The case of claim 11, wherein each of the sixsections include eight tabs, wherein each tab interlocks with at leastone tab of an attached lateral section, and wherein the eight tabs areeach approximately 3 inches in length and spaced symmetrically at 13inches apart.
 20. A modular protective case comprising: a housingincluding a rigid, impact-resistant material, wherein the housing iscomposed of at least four sections; wherein at least two sections of theat least four sections form a first half of the housing; wherein each ofthe at least two sections is laterally attached to another section withat least two latches per interface; wherein at least one of the at leasttwo sections is an end cap section; a second half of the housing,wherein the second half of the housing is composed of at least twoadditional sections of the at least four sections; wherein the at leasttwo additional sections are equal in number to the at least twosections; wherein the at least two additional sections are laterallyattached to each other with at least two additional latches perinterface; wherein the first half of the housing is attached to thesecond half of the housing with at least four vertical latches; whereinthe at least four sections are stackable upon being disassembled.